Nagasau to help Chiefs

The Central Chiefs after training in Suva on Wednesday. Picture: ARIN KUMAR

THE Central Chiefs women's 7s side has been boosted by the inclusion of Fijiana skipper Rusila Nagasau and two overseas-based reps for the Fiji Bitter Nawaka 7s that starts in Nadi today.

Six women's teams will compete in the event that will be held at Prince Charles Park today and tomorrow.

Fiji Women's Rugby Union president Paulini Tamatasasa said they were looking forward to the tournament.

"This is the first time women's competition has been included in the Nawaka 7s and we are thankful to the organisers for considering us," she said.

"Marist Seahawks, Mystics Knights, Striders and Central Chiefs from Suva will compete in the tournament while Nadroga Stallions from Sigatoka and Nadi Blazers from the host town will feature in the tournament.

"Initially eight teams were supposed to compete but the teams from Lautoka and Ra failed to confirm in time for the registration deadline."

Meanwhile, Josephine Bavatu and Sainiana Bose from Australia will feature for the Central Chiefs at the tournament.

The two are part of the Sydney Ranadi side that competes in the women's 7s and 15s tournaments in Australia.

Bavatu has been playing rugby and rugby league for the past five years and is the niece of former Fiji Rugby Union development officer Semi Matalau.

Hailing from Naroi in Moala, Bavatu has been helping the Chiefs for some time now and even paid for the team's entry fee in the Nawaka 7s.

"The team is kind of low on finances and resources and I decided the help them out," she said.

"I also brought in my colleague from Sydney to come and play here."

This will be Bose's first tournament in Fiji and she said the experience would be something she needs.

"I have been playing rugby for the past two seasons now and I look forward to playing in Fiji," said the lass from Naqara in Ono, Kadavu.